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Why you should visit Madikwe Game Reserve: A hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts
by Kelly Rabie - Reservations Manager - 5 November 2024
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for an escape into nature, Madikwe Game Reserve is a destination worth putting on your list. Situated on South Africa’s border with Botswana, Madikwe is one of South Africa's largest game reserves, covering over 75,000 hectares of breathtaking landscapes.
But it’s not just the vast size that sets Madikwe apart – it’s also the unique experiences it offers to every visitor.
Here are a few reasons why Madikwe should be your next safari destination.
Accessibility
Only one hour's drive from Gaborone in Botswana, or 3.5-4 hours' drive from Johannesburg, Madikwe is easily accessible by road - whether you're hiring a car or using a road transfer service.
For those on a tighter travel schedule, morning and afternoon shuttle flights from O R Tambo into Madikwe are provided by Fedair, with a flight time of only one hour into the eastern or western strip (see our first-hand experience on our TikTok or Instagram reels).
Open all year round, the reserve gates open at 6am, and close strictly at 6pm, with nobody permitted entry after that time.
Birds, Big 5 and more
Madikwe is home to an array of diverse wildlife. Over 340 bird species can be spotted in the reserve, making it a birder’s paradise. From the vivid lilac-breasted rollers to elusive owls and raptors, Madikwe’s rich birdlife is bound to fascinate both novice and seasoned bird-watchers.
Birdlife is just the beginning - Madikwe also hosts an impressive variety of animals, including the iconic Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. What really sets it apart are the additional rare species that roam the reserve, like cheetah and the endangered African wild dog. Sightings of these unique predators are highly sought after, and Madikwe offers one of the best opportunities in South Africa to observe them in the wild.
Less touristy, more exclusive safari experience
Unlike other popular reserves, where many public vehicles may converge around a single sighting, Madikwe offers a level of exclusivity and tranquility. This is particularly appealing for those who seek a more uninterrupted and intimate connection with nature.
Madikwe also does not allow day visitors, and no self-driving is permitted - Instead there is a network of lodge vehicles, driven by professional guides, taking guests out to see the animals.
Game vehicles are allowed to drive off-road for a confirmed sighting, meaning they can follow the lions through the bush, track wild dogs chasing an impala, and can get right underneath a tree to watch a leopard with its kill.
The 21 commercial lodges within Madikwe range from rustic off-grid eco-adventures, to ultimate luxury, providing options for all budgets and preferences.
The number of game vehicles on each drive is also limited - it’s not uncommon to have a wildlife sighting all to yourself, and you'll never have more than 3 vehicles attend, allowing visitors to enjoy peaceful, unrushed encounters with the wildlife.
Exceptional Game Drives
Game drives led by expert guides allow you to experience Madikwe’s impressive wildlife. They are highly knowledgeable and passionate, sharing their insights and stories. Morning and evening drives allow visitors to see the animals during their most active times – either at sunrise as the day begins or at sunset when the nocturnal creatures start to stir.
Enjoying sunset drinks under the rising moon, surrounded by the untouched wilderness provides the ultimate bush escape, and perfect moments of serenity and adventure.
Conservation Success
Madikwe is one of the largest conservation success stories in South Africa. Established in the early 1990s, the land that now makes up Madikwe was previously used for farming. Recognizing the potential for conservation and tourism, the South African government took on an ambitious project to rehabilitate the land and reintroduce native wildlife species.
The result, known as "Operation Phoenix," became one of the largest game translocation projects ever, relocating more than 8,000 animals, including elephants, rhinos, and rare African wild dogs, back to the reserve. This focus on conservation and community upliftment has remained strong to this day, making Madikwe a model for sustainable wildlife management.
Unique Landscapes and Biodiversity
The scenery in Madikwe is as diverse as the animals that inhabit it. The reserve is nestled between the Kalahari Desert and the lush Lowveld, meaning visitors get to experience a mix of landscapes – from open grasslands and savannas to rocky hills. This unique positioning between desert and savanna habitats fosters a strikingly rich biodiversity, ensuring that no two game drives feel the same.
Malaria-Free Zone
One of Madikwe’s biggest draws is its malaria-free status. This makes it an excellent choice for groups or families with children, expectant mothers, or anyone who wants to avoid taking anti-malarial medication. Visitors can fully immerse themselves in the experience, with peace of mind alongside an exciting safari experience.
Perfect for Photographers and Nature Enthusiasts
With its blend of spectacular landscapes, large numbers of rare species, and limited crowds, Madikwe is a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The abundance of wildlife and the skilled guides who know how to position the vehicles for optimal viewing make it a dream setting for capturing everything from powerful predator moments to delicate birdlife interactions.
Here is just a small selection of the images shared with us by guests on their photographic safari (see our socials for even more!)
In short, Madikwe Game Reserve is a place where conservation, community involvement, and the safari experience come together harmoniously. For anyone seeking a unique, memorable, and ethically responsible safari, Madikwe offers an experience that’s difficult to match.
Ready for your exclusive wilderness experience? Contact us to check available accommodation!
